LMS Royal Scot Class

The Royal Scot Class locomotives were initially built for the demanding schedules of principal Anglo-Scottish services. Specifically, they were designed for the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS) to haul express trains like the "Royal Scot" from London to Glasgow. They entered service in 1927 to provide competition for the LNER's Flying Scotsman.

The class was designed by Henry Fowler, the Chief Mechanical Engineer of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS). Introduced in 1927, they were a 4-6-0 wheel arrangement designed for heavy express passenger work. They were later significantly rebuilt under George Ivatt and Stanier.

Yes, Locomotive No. 6100 "Royal Scot" was sent on a promotional tour of the United States and Canada in 1933. It traveled over 11,000 miles across the North American rail network. The tour was a major public relations success for British engineering.

A total of 50 Royal Scot Class locomotives were built between 1927 and 1930. They remained the flagship express passenger locomotives for the LMS until the introduction of the Princess Royal and Coronation classes. One preserved example, 46100 "Royal Scot," still operates today.